Equality in the beautiful game is an ever present discussion. From differences in opportunities to lack of funding, young women face a host of challenges within the sport.
Pace FC are an academy for girls who play their football in Totton, Hampshire. The growing interest is there for all to see, from dwindling numbers and struggling to field a full team in it’s early years, to having a full range of academies from u8 to u16s. Young girls in the area have a designated and welcoming space to train and play.
This institution reflects the growing interest in the women’s game, from the grassroots up – with WSL attendances and traction multiplying, these girls are able to turn their inspiration into fruition in 2026, with more and more spaces acknowledging the demand.
The government’s significant increase in investment for the women’s game following the lionesses impressive and undeniable success is paying off – but we still have a long way to go.
For further insight on what’s happening at Pace FC, view this package by Lloyd Stevens, Solent Sports News:
